Molecular symmetry viewer
Rotate structures and identify their molecular point group.
Live model
Drag with a mouse or one finger to rotate. Use the zoom control or mouse wheel to move closer.
Water
H2O
Module 12 of 13
Description of this simulation
Water (H2O): Molecular symmetry viewer — C₂v. Two lone pairs compress the H–O–H angle and leave a strong net dipole.
Live result
C₂v
Two lone pairs compress the H–O–H angle and leave a strong net dipole.
Molecule at a glance
- Geometry
- Bent
- Symmetry
- C₂v
- Polarity
- Polar
- Bond angle
- 104.5°
What this model shows — and what it simplifies
Point-group labels summarize the ideal equilibrium geometry using its rotation axes, mirror planes and inversion symmetry.
Where do we see this in real life?
Symmetry decides which vibrations absorb infrared light, which orbitals may combine and whether a molecule can be chiral.